Le Duff America Announces New Chief Development Officer

Le Duff America Inc. announced Paul Carolan as chief development officer of the global bakery and restaurant company. In his new position, Carolan will focus on growing the Le Duff America brands, as well as overseeing the real estate development and franchise departments.

Carolan is a seasoned development professional with 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry. He has held significant leadership roles with well-respected companies HMSHost Marriott and Aramark, and Einstein Bros. Bagels.

“Paul brings a unique understanding to the position from both the franchisor and franchisee perspective,” says Jim Vinz, co-CEO of Le Duff America. “His expertise in franchise business development, franchise operations and support, real estate, finance, and brand growth strategy will provide Le Duff America with a key new member of our senior leadership team.”

Most recently, Carolan served as vice president of development at Sun Capital Partners in Boca Raton, Florida, helping drive franchise development strategy for its eight restaurant divisions. In this position, he ran franchise and street development support for more than 1,900 restaurants, including Bar Louie, Boston Market, Garden Fresh, and Fazoli’s. Prior to Sun Capital, Carolan was executive vice president of franchise development for Einstein Noah Restaurant Group Inc., the nation’s largest operator of bagel bakeries. He led Einstein Bros. Bagel and Manhattan Bagel franchise development, overseeing store operations, new store development, finance, marketing, quality assurance, training, and restaurant design.

Previously, Carolan served as vice president of Aramark Corporation in Philadelphia. There, he established standards related to restaurant operations with a focus on food production management and cost efficiency. He has also worked in a leadership capacity for HMSHost Marriott.

“I am thrilled to join such a fast-growing company,” says Carolan. “I look forward to working with the Le Duff team and its strong network of brands as we continue to strategically grow and develop its North American presence.”